Gan Mao Ling is a popular formula addressing External Wind Heat patterns. All of the herbs in the formula clear exterior Wind Heat at either the Wei or Qi level. Gan Mao Ling dispels invasions from the surface layers of the body before they sink deeper into the internal layers, where they become more difficult to address. Pubescent holly root invigorates Blood and clears Heat. Evodia lepta leaf and root clears Heat and Fire invasion, and Isatis root drains Heat, clears Fire invasions, cools the Blood and benefits the throat. Chrysanthemum flower dispels Wind, clears Heat and calms the Liver. Simple-leaf chaste tree fruit clears externally contracted Wind Heat, particularly when it has settled in the face and eyes. Honeysuckle flower clears Heat and Fire invasions, vents and disperses externally contracted Wind Heat. During the pivotal first few days of a Wind invasion, consistent and larger doses are most effective. Gan Mao Ling may also be taken temporarily as a preventative immune defense. Combine with Pinellia Dispersing Formula for Phlegm Heat in the Lungs with unresolved exterior Wind Invasion. Combine with Zhong Gan Ling for stronger Wind Heat invasion. ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENTGan Mao Ling is a modern formula with many variations. It was originally developed by Dr. Shih Chin-Mai. Classical antecedents include Mulberry and Chrysanthemum Decoction (Sang Ju Yin) from Wen Bing Tiao Bian by Wu Ju-Tong in 1798.
